Group or company?

Share

Since 2012, the National Women’s Soccer League – the world’s biggest of its kind – has defined the women’s game. Building on the huge grassroots popularity of the sport, and boosted by the success of the USA national team, it’s an exciting time to watch one of North America’s fastest-growing sports. But what makes NWSL games so special? There’s a fan culture, and a bond between players and supporters, that’s totally unique in world soccer – you just have to experience it. So take a look at some of the great match-ups in the schedule, and pick your Womens Professional Soccer Tickets here on StubHub.

National Women’s Soccer League – the elite world game

With preseason build-up starting in early spring, the league really comes to life in April, when the 10 teams start their regular season, a straight split of home and road trip games. So there are lots of ways to enjoy the NWSL action. Get behind the team for a big home stand, or buy tickets for the full home season. Follow the team on the road, or experience the atmosphere of soccer’s big rivalries: the match-ups between Sky Blue FC and Washington Spirit, or the Pacific Northwest derby that brings together Seattle Reign FC and Portland Thorns FC.

There’s an exciting postseason too: the first-placed league team – who win the NWSL Shield – join the next three teams in two-game playoffs. With the stakes high, these elimination games draw some of the biggest crowds, and there’s everything to play for. It’s traditionally a wide-open league: three teams claimed the Championship in the league’s first four seasons, and the inaugural Best XI teams of the season easily found a place for players from all eight clubs.

National Women’s Soccer League – the stars on and off the field

The NWSL is the place to see the greatest players in women’s world soccer. The league awards a Golden Boot, Rookie of the Year and an MVP, and the inaugural season saw a golden generation of players competing for the individual honours. The likes of two-time Olympic gold medallist Lauren Holliday, prolific US forward Sydney Leroux, rock-steady keeper Adrianna Franch and the legendary Amy Wambach set the standard for future nominees.

But the real stars of the league are the fans. Supporters' clubs organise tailgating beers and tacos, road trips and team chants, but also tifo painting parties, game-day charity drives, and support for equality initiatives like “Playing for Pride”. Alongside soccer’s great family-friendly atmosphere, and a real feeling of being close to the action, they bring a rowdy and positive vibe that goes to the heart of US soccer.